TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Prepares for 2025 WEC Season at Qatar 1812km

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing kicked off the 2025 FIA WEC season with practice sessions at Lusail International Circuit for the Qatar 1812km. The team aims to defend its manufacturers’ championship and improve performance in preparation for qualifying. Both cars demonstrated strong competition, navigating challenging conditions to gather valuable data ahead of the race.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing commenced its preparations for the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with the initial practice sessions at Lusail International Circuit for the Qatar 1812km event. Competing against seven other manufacturers in a robust Hypercar class, TOYOTA aims to defend its manufacturers’ championship, win the drivers’ title, and reclaim victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours race this season.

During the two 90-minute practice sessions, the competition among 18 Hypercars was evident, as the 8 car of Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa finished sixth overall, while the 7 crew of Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries placed 13th. Visibility and track conditions heavily influenced performance, as sand from the changing winds affected the racing line.

Following a thorough analysis of data from previous tests, the team worked on fine-tuning their GR010 HYBRIDS and Michelin tires. Both teams utilized the practice sessions to optimize car setups and tire strategies while also engaging in promotional activities, including a lap-time competition with local Toyota staff.

The first practice session began under windy conditions, with both cars remaining in the garages initially to assess changes caused by sand blown onto the track. Once on the track, the 7 car recorded the 13th fastest lap, while the 8 car achieved fourth place during an interrupted session with close lap times among the top competitors.

In the second practice, conducted in mixed lighting conditions, Brendon achieved the quickest lap for the 8, finishing sixth overall, while Nyck aimed for a qualifying setup, placing 7 in 13th. The team is now focused on improving their settings ahead of the final practice and qualifying sessions scheduled for later in the day before the race on February 28.

Team Principal and driver, Kamui Kobayashi, highlighted the need to close the speed gap to other competitors and adapt to the changing track conditions. Drivers Mike Conway and Nyck de Vries emphasized the need for continuous adjustments to account for variable grip levels. Meanwhile, Sébastien Buemi noted the team’s consistent performance and effort to recover for qualifying.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing is actively preparing for the Qatar 1812km race as part of the 2025 WEC season, focusing on optimizing their car performance amidst challenging conditions. Both practice sessions showcased competitive times among the Hypercars, with the team aiming to improve ahead of qualifying. Quotes from team members reflect a collective commitment to adapt and enhance their strategies for an effective performance this season.

Original Source: newsroom.toyota.eu